The new Netflix series Insatiable has sparked a fierce debate among critics, with some condemning it as 'fat-shaming' while others defend its satirical intent. The show, which premiered on 10 August, follows unpopular, overweight schoolgirl Patty who seeks revenge on bullies after losing weight over the summer.
Writing in The Guardian, Arielle Bernstein criticised the series for pretending to help teenagers navigate a cruel world while merely reiterating harmful stereotypes. However, Lucy Dixon of The Independent argued that Insatiable is no worse than shows like Love Island, which also lack diverse body representation.
Carrie Wittmer of Business Insider described the show as 'just as upsetting as its trailer', noting its use of dated cliches and offensive content. Jenna Guillaume of BuzzFeed Australia called it a 'fat-shaming dumpster fire', criticising the message that weight loss through jaw wiring is a positive route to happiness.
Variety's Caroline Framke found the show 'much weirder and worse than advertised', failing as satire despite attempts to critique societal standards. Kevin Fallon of The Daily Beast labelled it 'unforgivably inelegant', unable to land its progressive messages on body image, sexuality, and race.
Creator Lauren Gussis defended the series, calling it 'a cautionary tale about how damaging it can be to believe the outsides are more important'. She urged viewers to give the show a chance, but critics remain divided on whether the backlash was justified.
